The Western Fells occupy a triangular sector of the Lake District, bordered by the River Cocker to the north-east and Wasdale to the south-east.

The main watershed runs broadly westwards from Great Gable, dividing the headwaters of Ennerdale and Wasdale.

The northern slopes of Haycock fall over crags into Great Cove, the birthplace of Deep Gill.

This subsidiary top, listed as a Nuttall, has its rock face to the north of the ridge, appearing as a prominent knuckle in views from that side.

This begins steeply over Gowder Crag and then broadens over High Pikehow before finally reaching the depression at Pots of Ashness (1,640 feet / 500 m).

On the opposite side of the south ridge is the valley of Nether Beck, making straight for Wast Water.

[1] From Ennerdale the natural line follows the unnamed spur to the west of Deep Gill, footpaths having been created through the forestry.

Netherbeck Bridge provides access from the shore of Wast Water, following the stream around the base of Middle Fell.